Mike Safo

Latest Episodes:

Mike Safo with Rick Strassman, Psychiatrist, Researcher, Author, & "Godfather of DMT" Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

Joined today by psychiatrist, researcher, and author, Dr. Rick Strassman. Rick shares his fascinating journey, from growing up in California during the '60s to developing a lifelong passion for chemistry, ultimately leading him to become known as the "Father of DMT." He discusses his groundbreaking book DMT: The Spirit Molecule and his latest work, My Altered States, along with a deep dive into the mysteries of DMT—what it is, how our bodies produce it, and what happens when it’s released.

Rick and my brother explore the effects of DMT, touching on experiences of "tripping out," out-of-body phenomena, and why so many people report encounters with "beings" after taking the substance. We also discuss the potential benefits and risks of psychedelics, including their use in treating depression, PTSD, and anxiety, while acknowledging the dangers of excessive use.

Dr. Strassman opens up about his groundbreaking research on DMT in the '90s, shedding light on his goals, the government grants he received, and the unexpected surprises that came from his studies. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding psychedelics, the possibilities of changing how these substances are classified, and what has sparked the recent resurgence of interest in them.

From his experiences with Joe Rogan to predicting plot twists in The White Lotus, Dr. Strassman delivers both knowledge and entertainment in this captivating episode.

Follow Rick Strassman here and purchase his new book, My Altered States: A Doctor's Extraordinary Account of Trauma, Psychedelics, and Spiritual Growth

https://www.rickstrassman.com/

Mike Safo with David Grann, New York Times Best Seller Author ("Killers of the Flower Moon", "The Lost City of Z", "The Wager") Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

Today, we’re joined by New York Times best-selling author David Grann. In this conversation, David opens up about his New York roots, his passion as a die-hard Knicks fan, and why he’ll never approach someone reading his book in public. He shares stories of defying his mother’s wishes to pursue his writing dream, his unexpected moment as an answer on Jeopardy, and the honor of making it onto President Obama’s must-read list.

David reflects on his decision to transition from reporting to writing, culminating in the gripping tale of The Lost City of Z. He explains why he chose to explore Percy Fawcett’s fateful journey into the Amazon for his first book, shares his experiences in the jungle, and reveals the moment he found out he had made the New York Times bestseller list.

From there, David takes us into the tragic history of the Osage people in his blockbuster book Killers of the Flower Moon. He dives into how he gained their trust and why he believes their story is one of the greatest injustices in American history.

We also dive deep into his latest work, The Wager, where David shares how he first came across the story, his fascination with mutiny, cannibalism, and life on the high seas. And, of course, he opens up about seeing his books brought to life by Martin Scorsese, his time with Leonardo DiCaprio, his visit to Wager Island, and much more.

This is an insightful and fun conversation with one of the greatest storytellers of our time. Enjoy!

Mike Safo with CJ Albertson, American long-distance runner & Olympic hopeful Feb 07, 2025

Show notes

Joined today by American long-distance runner and Olympic hopeful, CJ Albertson. We dive into his upbringing in Clovis, California, including his childhood playing on a stacked little league baseball team and when he decided to fully dedicate himself to running. CJ shares his journey to Arizona State, the other schools he was considering, and the memorable (and awkward) story of how he first asked his now-wife on a date.

We also discuss his transition from college to professional running, setting records in the steeplechase, and the decision to focus on marathon racing. CJ opens up about his training strategies, his process for selecting races, and how he landed a deal with Brooks. We also compare our experiences at the NYC Marathon and talk about how he specifically prepared for that race, alongside his broader goals for major events.

CJ shares insights into his rigorous training regimen, diet, and how he balances running, parenthood, and teaching. From his unique approach to healthy eating and running with heat lamps to his commitment to the 2028 Olympics, CJ’s story is full of fascinating moments. Plus, hear how he managed to lose Jon Rahm's phone number and survived running over 200 laps on an indoor track. It’s a packed episode with a one-of-a-kind guest. Enjoy the conversation!

Mike Safo with Kyle Farnsworth, Former Yankee, MLB Veteran, Jan 16, 2025

Show notes

Join us today for an incredible conversation with MLB veteran, former New York Yankee, and professional bodybuilder Kyle Farnsworth. In this episode, Kyle opens up about his beautiful family, his love for dogs, and his passion for hunting. He shares his journey from getting cut from his high school baseball team to being drafted by the Cubs, discussing his decision to attend junior college before joining the Cubs’ minor league system.

Kyle takes us through the highs and lows of his career, from his first win as a pitcher to that unforgettable 2003 Game 7 National League Championship series, and the unforgettable experience of playing for the Cubbies. We dive into his decision to turn down a larger offer from the Rangers to wear the iconic Yankees pinstripes, stepping into a locker room filled with legends like Jeter, A-Rod, and Mariano Rivera, and the surreal experience of playing in the historic Yankee Stadium.

We also explore the challenges of being traded, his time in the Mexican League, and how all these experiences fueled his undying passion for the game. From there, we shift gears to Kyle’s surprising semi-pro football career, where he led the league in sacks, and his journey into professional bodybuilding, discussing his disciplined diet, intense workout routine, and what it takes to stay at the top.

We wrap up the conversation with fascinating stories about his unlikely friendship with Barry Bonds, chats about cattle with Nolan Ryan, and his thoughts on how baseball has changed over the years, particularly with all the rule changes affecting the integrity of the game.

All this and more with the ever-interesting, always entertaining Kyle Farnsworth. Be sure to follow him on Instagram for more

https://www.instagram.com/thekylefarnsworth

Mike Safo with Alex Cuadros, Author of "When We Sold God's Eye: Diamonds, Murder, and a Clash of Worlds in the Amazon" Jan 13, 2025

Show notes

Join us today for an engaging conversation with author and investigative journalist, Alex Cuadros. Alex shares his personal journey, from growing up in New Mexico to moving to New York for college, and ultimately making the bold decision to leave his job and immerse himself in the heart of Latin and South America as a journalist.

Alex is the author of the fascinating new book "When We Sold God's Eye: Diamonds, Murder, and a Clash of Worlds in the Amazon"". In this episode, Alex recounts the moment he first learned about the uncontacted Cinta Larga tribe—why the story captivated him, and how he managed to establish communication with them. He also delves into the tribe’s fascinating history, from their first contact with the outside world in the 1960s to the tumultuous challenges they've faced ever since.

We discuss the devastating impact of disease, the tribe's unintended involvement in the mahogany trade, and their eventual entanglement in the dangerous and secretive world of diamond mining. Alex sheds light on the horrific 2004 massacre that claimed the lives of 29 Cinta Larga members, and we explore how the legacy of this tragic event is remembered today in Brazil.

Finally, Alex shares his thoughts on uncontacted tribes and what steps can be taken to protect their heritage. All this and more. Enjoy

Mike Safo with Martin Gramática, Super Bowl Champion / NFL Veteran Dec 26, 2024

Show notes

Joined today by Super Bowl champion Martin Gramática. Martin talks about being a child in ‘86 when Argentina won the World Cup, how he celebrated the last year of them winning the Cup, and his superstitions watching the games. We then chat about Martin’s stud son dominating at USF, playing in the bowl game, and how he tries to give him advice. Martin shares how he started playing football as a senior in high school, why he chose Kansas State over Notre Dame, and where he was when he found out he was drafted. He reminisces seeing himself on his first card, why he had to change his autograph and walking into the locker room with Warren Sapp, Brooks and Alstott. We chat about that magical Super Bowl run, when he knew the team was special, and how the team celebrated. We hear how difficult it is going from team to team, the mental hurdles of being a kicker, and how a kicker gets out of a funk. We discuss life after football and the work that goes into being a broadcaster. He lets us know how it was like playing for coaches such as, Tony Dungy, Gruden, Parcells and Belichick. From his soccer celebrations and meeting Messi to his wonderful charity work and his love of westerns. All this and more with the legendary NFL kicker, Martin Automatica

Mike Safo with Patrick Bertoletti, 2024 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Champion Dec 12, 2024

Show notes

Joined today by the number two competitive food eater in the world and the 2024 Nathan‘s hot dog eating champion, Patrick Bartolo. Patrick talks about growing up in Chicago, going to culinary school and opening up his restaurant Taco In a Bag. We go over how his love of food and eating got him into the world of competitive food eating. We chat about his time on America’s Got Talent where he ate 120 raw eggs and he shares some of his world records, such as eating 20 pounds of blueberries in eight minutes 11 pounds of Key lime pie in eight minutes and 34 dozen oysters in eight minutes. From his training regimen to win the mustard belt, to his friendship with Joey Chestnut and how his life has changed after winning the legendary food eating contest in the world. All this and more with one of the most hungriest people I’ve had on the.

Mike Safo with Mark Munoz, UFC Fighter / Actor Dec 09, 2024

Show notes

Joined today, by UFC legend, Mark the Filipino wrecking machine Muñoz. Mark talks about being a Lolo (grandfather), becoming a comic book superhero in the loop with a vengeance comic series, and his superhero skills. He shares what life was like, growing up in California, how bullying led him to wrestling and why he chose to go to Oklahoma State. We hear about his first experience meeting a cowboy in Oklahoma, the insane knowledge of Oklahoma and wrestling fans, and how we had to lie about a party just to get his future wife’s phone number. We discuss his move back to California to coach, what made him decide to choose a career in mixed martial arts (MMA) and how he was thrown to the walls in his first training session by sparring with Randy Couture. We talk about his time in the UFC, bringing MMA out to the Philippines and why he decided that he needed to retire. From his son’s surging wrestling career to hanging/working out with Manny Pacquiao. All this and more with one of the nicest guys in the history of the UFC.

Mike Safo with T.J. Dillashaw, two-time UFC Bantamweight Champion Dec 05, 2024

Show notes

Joined today by former UFC Champion and Founder/CEO of Wild Society Nutrition, T.J. Dillashaw. T.J. talks about growing up in California, wrestling as a child and his collegiate career at Cal State Fullerton. We go over the science of food, recovery and his amazing new company, Wild Society Nutrition. We hear about the process of creating protein powders, beef jerky and all his other products. T.J. takes us through the decision to become a professional fighter, the sacrifices he made by sleeping on a futon in a living room, and finally getting a chance by being on the Ultimate Fighter TV show. We discuss some of his controversial losses, stunning the fighting world by winning the title at UFC 173, and how he celebrated in Vegas. T.J. breaks down his legendary feud with Cody Garbrandt, the allure of fighting at Madison Square Garden (MSG), and becoming a worldwide name overnight. We chat about cutting weight despite all the injuries that his body has endured and the pain taking recovery he has gone through. All this plus awesome stories about having dinner with Hulk Hogan and much more Check out T.J.’s Instagram and company website here: IG: https://www.instagram.com/tjdillashaw/ Website to order: https://wildsocietynutrition.com/

Mike Safo with Chris Byrd, Former Heavyweight Champion (Boxing) Dec 04, 2024

Show notes

Joined today by the former heavyweight champion of the world, Chris Byrd. Chris reminisces about growing up in Flint, Michigan with 8 siblings, why Boxing was the only thing for him, and his insane amateur career which included over 285 wins. Chris shares why they are calling him “Healthy Byrd”, and after 11 years of pain all over his body how his diet finally resurrected him. Chris and I talk about the legendary 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona. We hear why the boxing team did not go to the opening ceremonies, if the Olympic villages are as crazy as we always hear, winning the silver medal, and where all that cool Olympic swag is. We try to find out why Chris wasn’t signed by a promotion after the Olympics, we hear about him hustling just to get fights in a nightclub, and how he finally started fighting in big arenas. We go over his crazy boxing schedule, how and why he took the fight in Berlin against Vitali Klitschko, and how he celebrated winning the world title. We discuss the sport of Boxing, working for Don King, and his fight with Evander Holyfield in Atlantic City. Chris shocks everyone when he talks about his comeback fight in January or February 2025. He talks about his desire to be the champion again and why no one will be surprised when he does it again. All this and more with the “CHAMP”

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